Outstanding community work is marked at charity awards evening
Dozens of people gathered for a charity awards evening at the South Lodge Hotel near Horsham.
Chestnut Tree House held its biennial business awards to recognise businesses and individual employees who are outstanding in their communities.
The event was hosted by BBC Sussex and BBC Surrey presenter, Allison Ferns, and Chestnut Tree House vice president, Ambrose Harcourt.
Sarah Colbourne, head of fundraising for the charity said: “Last year, we celebrated Chestnut Tree House’s 15th birthday.
“Fifteen years of caring for children and young people with life-shortening conditions in Sussex and South East Hampshire.”
The winners and grand finalists were chosen based on a variety of different criteria.
These included outstanding team work and innovation.
There were more than 80 nominations, which were narrowed down by a panel of judges.
The panel was made up of leading entrepreneur Kevin Byrne, Chestnut Tree House trustee, Maureen Chowen, previous Business Award winner and company director, Colin Davis, and former events company director, Jon Rogers.
AJW Aviation won the fundraising team of the year award.
The Horsham company has supported Chestnut Tree House for nine years.
They have contributed to the charity in a number of ways.
Last year alone, the team raised and donated more than £12,000.
This brought their total to £45,000 since 2010.
AJW Aviation aims to engage all staff in fundraising activities.
Last year the team organised a range of events, including cake sales, quizzes, a collection in the canteen, and a golf day.
Three members of the team also took part in the Chestnut Tree House abseil at Arundel Castle.
“Without the ongoing support and generosity of our local community, it would not be possible for us to continue providing the care that is vital to so many children and their families,” Sarah added.
Chestnut Tree House is based in Arundel and provides care for children with life-shortening conditions.